Stylist Micaela Erlanger knows a thing or two about helping people look good. She does count A-listers like Michelle Dockery and Lupita Nyong’o as clients, after all. The fashion guru and author of “How to Accessorize: The Perfect Finish to Every Outfit,” sat down with Us to talk all things summer ‘18 style and gave us the tips and tricks to creating a balanced look, the key to deciding what hair and makeup to wear with an outfit, the trend she wishes we would all skip out on and, gasp, the simple tricks you can employ to copy Lupita’s signature whimsical style. Check out the interview below!
Stylish: What are your tips for women for summer trends and fashion?
Micaela Erlanger: There’s nothing more exciting than spring and summer fashion, it’s the best time to dress up in my opinion and there’s so much going on this season. I’m loving the athleisure wear and the relaxed, elevated approach that we’re seeing a lot of. It really is more sophisticated comfort, the athleisure wear with sneakers or heels that lend themselves to an athletic vibe — it’s a fun ’90s redux. I’m enjoying that. Or a more glamorous approach anything romantic and pretty pastels. I’m loving flowers, lot of either floral prints or flowers on clothes is so great.
Stylish: What kind of looks have you been putting your A-list clients lately?
ME: For my clients and myself, we try to go towards pastels and romantic floral prints and a lot of sequins that aren’t super blingy. I’ve been loving matte sequins and reverse sequin effects because you can work in a subtle glitz like they’ve done on Valentino and Gucci runways. I’m very into big beading and threadwork and intricate designs in general.
Stylish: Do you have any tips for non-famous people who want to rock these trends?
ME: I think it’s a balancing act. I always take the approach that if you’re going to take the fun loud print or bright color, tone down the other elements of your look. If you have a sequin top, pair it with denim or pair some army fatigue with some sparkle.
Stylish: How do you make these summer trends work for Lupita?
ME: Lupita loves fun, bold looks. The key to nailing her look is to make sure that a dress doesn’t overwhelm her but choosing silhouettes that are flattering no matter the fabric. The easy way to copy her style is to look for chiffon and silk pieces or skirts with an accordian pleat, so it can have a great movement. You’ll be ready to twirl!
Stylish: What are your favorite bold looks for people to try out inspired by A-listers this summer?
ME: I love a fun heel and there are a couple ways to get dressed in a bold shoe. If you use your accessory as a focal point or if your accessory is the finishing touch, it’s all about finding balance, which I give tips about in my book. A bold heel can really be half of what you’re wearing.
